How to Use Instant Pot as Slow Cooker: Simple Steps

You might have heard about the Instant Pot and its many features. One of these is using it as a slow cooker. If you’re used to a traditional slow cooker, you’ll love this option. The Instant Pot can do the same job but faster. It’s great for cooking meals slowly over time, which helps flavors mix really well.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to use your Instant Pot like a slow cooker. You’ll learn simple steps to make your favorite slow-cooked dishes. Whether you’re making a hearty stew or a tasty casserole, you’ll see how easy it is to switch between cooking methods.

How to Use Instant Pot as Slow Cooker: Step-by-Step Guide

Setting Up Your Instant Pot

First, you need to make sure your Instant Pot is ready to use. This involves a few simple but important steps to ensure your appliance is clean and functioning properly. Begin by taking out the inner pot from the Instant Pot base.

Make sure it is clean by washing it with warm, soapy water and drying it thoroughly. This removes any dust or residues that might have accumulated. Place the clean and dry inner pot back into the Instant Pot base.

Check the power cord and plug it into a nearby electrical outlet. Ensure the Instant Pot is placed on a stable, flat surface to avoid any accidents.

It’s also a good idea to make sure the exterior of the Instant Pot is clean and dry, especially around the control panel and lid area, to maintain its overall hygiene and performance.

Choosing the Right Lid

For slow cooking with an Instant Pot, the type of lid you use is crucial. The Instant Pot comes with a locking lid designed for pressure cooking, but this isn’t always the best option for slow cooking.

Ideally, you should use a glass lid if you have one, as it allows you to see the food cooking without lifting the lid and letting heat escape.

If you don’t have a glass lid, you can use the regular Instant Pot lid, but make sure to set the steam release valve to “Venting.” This setting prevents pressure from building up inside the pot, which is essential for slow cooking.

The “Venting” position allows steam to escape, ensuring the cooking process mimics that of a traditional slow cooker. Always ensure the lid is placed correctly and securely on the pot to avoid any accidents during cooking.

Adding Ingredients

Once your Instant Pot is set up and the right lid is chosen, it’s time to add your ingredients. Just like with a traditional slow cooker, you can use any slow cooker recipe with your Instant Pot.

Start by preparing your ingredients. This might include chopping vegetables, marinating meat, or measuring out spices and liquids. Place the ingredients into the inner pot of the Instant Pot.

Be mindful of the recommended fill levels indicated inside the pot. Do not overfill, as this can affect cooking performance and safety. A good rule of thumb is to fill the pot no more than two-thirds full.

This allows enough space for the food to cook evenly and for steam to circulate. Once all the ingredients are in, give everything a good stir to ensure even distribution and to combine the flavors well.

Selecting the Slow Cook Function

With the ingredients ready, it’s time to select the slow cook function on your Instant Pot. Plug in your Instant Pot if you haven’t already. The control panel will light up, indicating that the appliance is ready to use.

Press the “Slow Cook” button to activate the slow cooking mode. This function allows the Instant Pot to cook at a lower temperature over a longer period, just like a traditional slow cooker.

If you don’t see a “Slow Cook” button, check your Instant Pot model’s manual, as the function might be labeled differently or accessed through a different button.

Activating the slow cook function prepares the Instant Pot to cook your meal slowly and evenly, allowing flavors to develop fully over time.

Setting the Temperature

Once the slow cook function is activated, you’ll need to set the temperature. The Instant Pot usually offers three temperature settings for slow cooking: “Less,” “Normal,” and “More.”

These correspond to the low, medium, and high settings on a traditional slow cooker. “Less” is ideal for recipes that require gentle, long cooking, like stews or braises.

“Normal” is a medium setting suitable for most slow cooker recipes. “More” is used for recipes that need a bit more heat, similar to the high setting on a slow cooker.

To adjust the temperature, press the “Adjust” button until the desired setting is highlighted. Understanding these settings helps you replicate the slow cooking experience and ensures your meals are cooked to perfection.

Adjusting the Cooking Time

After setting the temperature, the next step is to adjust the cooking time. Slow cooking typically requires several hours to allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to become tender.

Use the “+” and “-” buttons on the Instant Pot’s control panel to set the cooking time. The exact time will depend on your recipe, but slow cooking often ranges from 4 to 8 hours.

For example, a pot roast might need 8 hours on the “Normal” setting, while a soup or stew might only need 4 to 6 hours. Setting the correct time ensures that your meal is cooked thoroughly and evenly.

Once you’ve set the desired cooking time, the Instant Pot will maintain a steady temperature for the duration, allowing you to go about your day without needing to constantly check on your meal.

Starting the Cooking Process

With the temperature and time set, you’re ready to start the slow cooking process. Simply press the “Start” button on the Instant Pot’s control panel.

The appliance will begin to heat up and maintain the set temperature for the duration you’ve programmed. During this time, the Instant Pot will slowly cook your ingredients, allowing the flavors to develop and the food to become tender.

One of the benefits of using the Instant Pot as a slow cooker is its consistent and reliable performance. You can trust that the appliance will maintain the correct temperature and cooking time, ensuring your meal is cooked perfectly.

This hands-off approach is one of the main advantages of slow cooking, allowing you to prepare meals with minimal effort.

Checking on Your Meal

While the Instant Pot is slow cooking your meal, you may want to check on the progress from time to time. Using a glass lid is especially helpful here, as it allows you to see inside without lifting the lid and letting heat escape.

If you need to lift the lid, do so carefully to avoid burns from hot steam. Stirring the ingredients occasionally can help ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

However, avoid lifting the lid too frequently, as this can cause the temperature to drop and extend the cooking time. Slow cooking is designed to be a low-maintenance process, so trust the appliance to do its job and only check on your meal if necessary.

Finishing the Cooking

When the cooking time is done, the Instant Pot will beep to let you know. At this point, you can press the “Cancel” button to stop the cooking process. Allow the pot to cool slightly before handling.

If you’re using the regular Instant Pot lid, carefully set the steam release valve to “Venting” to release any remaining steam. Once the steam is fully released, you can safely remove the lid.

Use oven mitts to handle the hot inner pot, as it will be very hot. Your meal is now ready to serve. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors are well-developed and the ingredients are tender, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Serving the Food

With your meal cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve. Use oven mitts to carefully lift the inner pot out of the Instant Pot base. Place it on a heat-resistant surface.

You can use a ladle or serving spoon to dish out the food. Slow-cooked meals often have a rich, flavorful broth, so be sure to include plenty of liquid when serving.

Whether you’re serving a hearty stew, tender pot roast, or flavorful soup, your meal is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your slow-cooked creation with family and friends, savoring the delicious results of your effort.

Cleaning Up

After enjoying your meal, it’s important to clean your Instant Pot properly to keep it in good working condition. Allow the appliance to cool down completely before cleaning.

Start by removing the inner pot and washing it with warm, soapy water. If there are any stuck-on food particles, let the pot soak for a while to make cleaning easier. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the surface.

Rinse thoroughly and dry the pot before storing. Wipe down the exterior of the Instant Pot with a damp cloth, paying attention to the control panel and lid area. Regular cleaning ensures your Instant Pot remains hygienic and ready for the next use.

Using your Instant Pot as a slow cooker is straightforward and convenient. By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy the benefits of slow cooking without needing a separate appliance.

Quetions on Your Mind

Can I Convert My Slow Cooker Recipes for Use in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can convert slow cooker recipes for your Instant Pot. To do so, use the “Slow Cook” function on your Instant Pot and select the temperature setting that matches your slow cooker’s low, medium, or high setting. Adjust the cooking time according to your recipe, keeping in mind that the Instant Pot’s slow cook function might cook food a bit differently than a traditional slow cooker.

Is It Necessary to Use the Sealing Ring When Using the Slow Cook Function?

No, it is not necessary to use the sealing ring when using the slow cook function on your Instant Pot. The sealing ring is primarily used for pressure cooking to ensure a tight seal. For slow cooking, using a glass lid or the regular lid with the valve set to “Venting” is sufficient, as it allows steam to escape and prevents pressure buildup.

Should I Use the Pressure Cook Function Instead of the Slow Cook Function?

You should use the “Slow Cook” function if you want to replicate traditional slow cooking. The pressure cook function cooks food much faster and changes the texture and flavor of some dishes. If you need to speed up the cooking process, you can use the pressure cook function, but be prepared to adjust the cooking time significantly.

Can I Use the Delay Start Feature with the Slow Cook Function?

Yes, you can use the delay start feature with the slow cook function. This feature allows you to set a delay before the cooking starts, making it convenient to have your meal ready at a specific time. However, be cautious with perishable ingredients, as they should not be left at room temperature for extended periods.

Is There a Specific Amount of Liquid Required for Slow Cooking?

Yes, there is a specific amount of liquid required for slow cooking in an Instant Pot. Generally, you should add at least 1 cup of liquid to the pot to create steam and prevent burning. The exact amount may vary depending on the recipe and type of dish you are preparing.

Should I Check on My Food While It’s Slow Cooking?

Yes, you should check on your food from time to time. You can open the lid to stir the ingredients or adjust seasonings. However, avoid opening the lid too frequently, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time. Using a glass lid can help you monitor the cooking process without frequently lifting the lid.

Can I Use the Instant Pot’s Slow Cook Function for Desserts?

Yes, you can use the Instant Pot’s slow cook function to prepare desserts. The slow cook mode is versatile and can handle a variety of dishes, including desserts like cobblers, puddings, and even cakes. Follow recipes designed for slow cooking to ensure the best results.

Is It Safe to Open the Lid During Slow Cooking?

Yes, it is safe to open the lid during slow cooking. Unlike pressure cooking, slow cooking does not require the lid to remain sealed. You can lift the lid to check on your food, stir it, or add additional ingredients. Just be cautious of hot steam when opening the lid.

Should I Adjust Cooking Times When Using the Instant Pot as a Slow Cooker?

Yes, you should adjust cooking times when using the Instant Pot as a slow cooker. Cooking times may differ from a traditional slow cooker, so monitor the food and adjust as needed. If you’re using a recipe originally designed for a slow cooker, it may take some experimentation to get the timing right.

Can I Store Leftovers from Slow Cooking in My Instant Pot?

Yes, you can store leftovers from slow cooking in your Instant Pot. After allowing the food to cool slightly, transfer it to airtight containers for refrigeration or freezing. Ensure that leftovers are stored properly to maintain freshness and safety.